WITH the NRL considering its options for a 20th team, Chad Townsend has given his thoughts on where the side should be located.<\/p>\n
Out of the potential options available to the competition, two contenders have emerged, with a second team in New Zealand (most likely the South Island) or a team located in Brisbane’s western corridor through the Ipswich Jets.<\/p>\n
Already, former South Sydney and Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson has thrown his support behind the Jets bid, believing it would quell the growth the AFL have made in Brisbane’s west.<\/p>\n
However, the 2016 Premiership player would be in disagreement, believing the competition should capitalise on the sport’s growth across the Tasman Sea.<\/p>\n
“I am going to disagree with Shane Richardson,” Townsend told SEN’s Kick Off.<\/p>\n
“If I’m in charge and making the decision about the expansion of the NRL, I am going to<\/p>\n
New Zealand with the team, either based out of Christchurch or Wellington.<\/p>\n
“I just think with the growth of rugby league in New Zealand and what the Warriors have been able to do, the Warriors for a long time sat behind the All Blacks with regards to interest.<\/p>\n
“Now, the things I hear out of New Zealand are that the Warriors have taken over. Their crowds every single week are sold out.<\/p>\n
“For not only this (season but), the last couple of seasons, since the Warriors have returned to New Zealand (after COVID), they’ve been fantastic.<\/p>\n
“They’re playing an exciting brand of football, and rugby league is absolutely thriving.<\/p>\n
“So, I think a (second) team in New Zealand would absolutely be beneficial for the game of rugby league, and the growth of Pacific Rugby League that we’ve<\/p>\n
seen, with the likes of Tonga and Samoa.”<\/p>\n
The NRL would likely introduce a 20th side after the 2032 Olympics.<\/p>\n